Switzerland is the ultimate hiking destination. The clean crisp mountain air, rich alpine meadows and shimmering turquoise lakes are just a glimpse of all that it has to offer. The Swiss are so well organized that the country has over 65,000 km of signposted trails to follow. From relaxing leisurely walks in Lucerne to trekking the Walker’s Haute Route – one of the world's top walks. You’re truly spoiled for choice. Lets start with our 5 favorite hikes in Switzerland! 

1. The Walkers Haute Route

Why we love it: The challenge of hiking through the greatest collection of 4000m peaks in the Alps and the epic view of Matterhorn when you reach Zermatt! 

The route: From Chamonix, you’ll follow well-marked trails however good navigation and mountain skills are necessary for the challenging mountain passes and changeable weather. It’s a tough trek over the course of 13 days of walking you will gain approximately 12,000m. Perfect for those with previous high mountain experience, good physical fitness, a head for heights and looking for the next big challenge.  You’ll be rewarded with alpine scenes lifted straight from a storybook and views of Matterhorn that will forever stay in your memory!

2. The Tour du Mont Blanc

Why we love it: We have a lot of love for the Tour du Mont Blanc. It’s one of our top 10 selling adventures and for good reason! It’s a challenging, exhilarating trek that’s within most walkers’ capabilities with the right training and preparation.  You’ll cover 170km and 10,000m of ascent, taking in France, Italy, and Switzerland! Ready for one of the world’s greatest walks?

The route: There are many variations and ways to complete the Mont Blanc circuit. Our tour starts and finishes in Les Houches (with the last night in Chamonix) and covers all of the trails so that you won’t miss a single step of this fabulous walk. The trail is comprehensively waymarked at all junctions and by regular paint marks along the way. We supply you with detailed 1:25 000 IGN maps, a comprehensive guidebook and route notes so you should have absolutely no problem following the route. 

Looking for cozy accommodation instead of mountain huts? Check our in-comfort options.

3. Lucerne Lakes and Mountains

Why we love it: This is iconic Switzerland for the leisurely walker.  Easy going walks around the Lake Lucerne Riviera, relaxing in stylish lakeside hotels and enjoying a spa treatment or two!  You don't miss out on the high mountain peaks views as cable cars and cogs are included.

The route: A classic point to point walking trip. Easy walking days of around 5-11 km and the route is quite straight forward as cable cars and cog railways are used to take care of the tough ascents and descents. You should be comfortable using cable cars and steep cog railways to get the most of this trip.

4. Glacier Express

Why we love it: It’s one of Europe's most beautiful train journeys! Combine this easy-going walks and panoramic views of the Matterhorn. What’s not to love?

The route: This itinerary combines rail with gentle hikes to see the most of the area. Walks are around 4-15km, and quite varied. Most walks are on the easy-moderate end of the scale however there are some walks like the Hoernliweg which are difficult. The beauty of this trip is that you can make it as easy or as difficult as you wish and a grade is assigned to each walk. 

5. Best of Bernese Oberland

Why we love it: The Bernese Oberland is an alpine hikers' playground with walks to suit all fitness levels. You have the freedom to extend/shorten your walk by cable car, funicular, bus or train! 

The route:  The walks are around 4-14km, but many you can shorten with mountain transport. The network of paths and trails in the Bernese Oberland is comprehensively way-marked as are all the variations we suggest. Explore at your own pace and style!

Ready for a Swiss Adventure? Get in touch with our team of specialists!